River Forest Park Campground

- 9439 Riverforest Rd, Weedsport, NY 13166

Introduction / Overview

For New York residents across the Central and Western regions, discovering a perfect, accessible outdoor retreat that caters to both relaxation and recreation can be the highlight of the summer season. River Forest Park Campground & Marina, nestled along the Seneca River in Weedsport, New York, stands out as a premier destination offering a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. Far beyond a simple patch of grass, this is a full-service park and marina that has embraced significant upgrades under new ownership, transforming it into a vibrant, family-friendly retreat.

The park proudly accommodates over 360 RV sites, offering options for seasonal and transient campers alike. It provides a unique experience by combining a traditional camping environment with the convenience of an on-site restaurant and marina. The positive sentiment from long-time patrons speaks volumes about the quality of the recent improvements, with one seasonal camper noting: "The new owners have been great! They have completing upgrades to the water and electrical service along with the roads and added a new pool and playground." Whether you are looking for a weekend escape by the water or a summer-long base camp for exploring Upstate New York, River Forest Park offers a well-kept, exciting atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

River Forest Park Campground is located at 9439 Riverforest Rd, Weedsport, NY 13166, USA, a location that is exceptionally advantageous for New York travelers and local users in the Central New York area.

• Major Highway Access: The campground’s location is highly convenient, situated less than one mile from the New York State Thruway (I-90) Exit 40. This ensures easy in-and-out access for RVs and quick travel for weekend campers arriving from Rochester, Syracuse, or the Capital Region.

• Proximity to Cities: The park serves as an excellent base for exploring major regional hubs. It is only about a 25 to 30-minute commute to Syracuse, making it accessible for city-dwellers seeking a close-by natural escape. It's also well-positioned near Auburn, Skaneateles, and Seneca Falls.

• Waterway Connection: A key feature of the location is its nearly mile-long riverfront access along the Seneca River. This access is crucial as the Seneca River connects directly to the NYS Canal System (Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor), allowing campers to arrive by boat or easily launch their watercraft to explore the extensive New York waterways.

• Local and Historical Exploration: Within a short drive, visitors can reach historical sites like the Women's Rights National Historical Park and the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, as well as the natural beauty of Cayuga Lake State Park and the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

Services Offered

River Forest Park provides a comprehensive range of services designed to make any length of stay comfortable and hassle-free, catering to both rugged tent campers and large modern RVs.

• Site Utilities: The campground offers over 360 sites, including spacious pull-thru and back-in options. RV sites are equipped with essential utilities, including 30-Amp and 50-Amp electrical service, as well as water hook-ups. Primitive tent sites are also available, often with a water hook-up for a more rustic, budget-friendly experience.

• Essential Amenities: For all guests, the park maintains meticulously clean restrooms with free hot showers. Other practical services include a sanitary dump station, propane sales, ice, and firewood for purchase.

• Watercraft Services: The on-site Marina and Boat Ramp provide essential access to the Seneca River, offering boat slips for daily and seasonal boaters. This is a major convenience for those who want to fully utilize the New York Canal System.

• Support Services: The camp provides a Wi-Fi hot spot for basic connectivity. For long-term RVers, a Honey Wagon (septic pump-out) service is available, a key convenience for keeping tanks managed without having to move the RV.

Features / Highlights

The unique blend of recreational amenities and social offerings sets River Forest Park apart as a top choice for Central New York campers.

• On-Site Restaurant & Entertainment: The park is home to Mance's Landing Restaurant & Bar. This full-service, Italian-American restaurant and bar offers casual dining, weekly specials, and an outdoor deck with river and pool views. A significant draw is the live music every weekend, creating a fun, festive atmosphere for guests and locals alike. There is also an ice cream spot, Mance's by the Pool.

• Upgraded Family Recreation: Thanks to recent investments, the park features a brand-new large swimming pool and a new playground. Additional recreational spots include a basketball court, horseshoe pits, cornhole, a new game room, a Gaga Ball Pit, and even a unique Foam Cannon for family fun during themed weekends.

• Riverfront Activities: With close to a mile of Seneca River frontage, the park is a dream for water enthusiasts. Campers enjoy excellent fishing opportunities along the river and in the serene on-site pond. The ability to easily launch boats further enhances the aquatic experience.

• Seasonal Camping Option: For those who want a regular outdoor retreat without the effort of setup and takedown every weekend, the park offers deluxe seasonal campsites, providing a relaxing, separated atmosphere from the transient sites, as praised by long-term residents.

Contact Information

For reservations, information on seasonal sites, or inquiries about Mance's Landing hours and live entertainment schedule, please use the following contact details:

Address:

9439 Riverforest Rd,

Weedsport, NY 13166, USA

Phone:

(315) 834-9458 (General Inquiries and Reservations)

+1 315-834-9458 (Alternate Contact)

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

River Forest Park Campground & Marina is perfectly suited for New York residents because it addresses the desire for both convenient travel and comprehensive family entertainment. Located minutes from the I-90 Thruway, it minimizes travel time and maximizes vacation time—a critical consideration for weekend warriors from Syracuse, Rochester, and beyond.

The recent, substantial upgrades, including the new pool, playground, and improved infrastructure, demonstrate a commitment to a high-quality guest experience, directly responding to the needs of modern camping families. The unique combination of a full-service marina for boaters and a lively on-site bar with live music means there is genuine fun for every age group. Whether you are seeking a peaceful riverfront fishing spot, a safe place for the kids to play, or a social hub for weekend fun, River Forest Park is Central New York’s well-kept secret for a memorable, convenient, and truly fun outdoor getaway.

River Forest Park Campground

9439 Riverforest Rd, Weedsport, NY 13166, USA